What can be done to prevent crime?

Violent and sexual offences in Great Baddow have almost doubled from 26 in April 2016 and 34 in April 2017 to 63 in April 2018, while vehicle crime has also gone up from eight in April 2016 and 11 in April 2017, to 15 in April 2018.

There were also 11 public order offences in April 2018 – up from four in April 2016 and five in April 2017.

Local protest group Great Baddow East Neighbourhood Association (GBENA) met with chief inspector Gerry Parker following the recent burglary to discuss the ongoing issues in the village.

While this is not seen as a solution to the lack of local policing, it is hoped the act will go some way to reassuring parishioners by providing a visible presence.

Councillor Christine Shaw, vice chairman of Great Baddow Parish Council, said: "I have heard there was a burglary but I do not know anymore than that. We get updates from the police regularly.

"We are getting special constables but they have to be recruited and trained unless we get fully-trained constables who express a desire to come to Great Baddow. It could take some months."

A community policing team will be in Great Baddow on Saturday (July 7) at Baddow Recreation Ground between 12pm and 4pm to talk to residents about their concerns in the area.

A statement released from Essex Police

A spokesman said: "We are appealing for information after a burglary on The Vineyards, Great Baddow.

"The Vines, a fruiterer, was broken into between Saturday, June 23, and Sunday, June 24.

"We were called just after 8.25am to reports that stock had been damaged and a till taken.

"Our enquiries are ongoing, but if you have any CCTV or witnessed anything which may be able to help officers, please call 101 and speak to Chelmsford police station. The incident number to quote is 370 of 24/06."

Chief Inspector Gerry Parker, District Commander for Chelmsford and Maldon, said: "I’m always happy to meet with people from our district to discuss their queries, concerns or answer their questions.

"Members of the public are the foundation of what we do, and if you see or suspect any crime we would always ask you to report it to us.

"Mr Oldershaw and I had a very productive discussion and one of the things I would like to highlight is the importance of volunteers in the local area.

"There are many groups who contribute to making our community a safer place, including local Neighbourhood Watch groups who work closely with our officers.